In 2010, Sheboygan, Wisconsin city departments started to aggressively focus time and resources into neighborhood revitalization efforts across the city at the same time as the Sheboygan Police Department implemented the community policing focus that assigned neighborhood officers to each of the 72 city neighborhoods.
Using the neighborhood revitalization strategy established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the city was able to funnel federal resources into the Gateway neighborhood to improve the overall area. Over time, this area has seen crime numbers drop and increased new investment.
The demolition of 12 dilapidated homes made room for the construction of the three new homes by Habitat for Humanity.
One may ask, “What is the definition of neighborhood revitalization?” Neighborhood revitalization is the idea of enhancing neighborhood resources, economic development, public services and the quality of life for residents.
Recently, the Common Council and department heads held a strategic planning update session. One of the six goals established included neighborhood revitalization. To date, with the help of Sheboygan Neighborhood Pride volunteers, the city has recognized five neighborhood associations including Gateway, Ellis, North Flats, Near North, and Indiana Avenue.
Photo of Mike Vandersteeen courtesy sheboyganwi.gov
See Op-Ed by Mike Vandersteen, Mayor of Sheboyganin, in the Sheboygan Press.